MICROTERYS NIETNERI is a parasitoid specialized in soft scale control. After release the parasitoids will immediately start their search for soft scales to parasitize. Upon parasitization, the soft scale is killed and after a while new parasitoids emerge, who in turn will look for a new host. The product is especially suitable for greenhouses, but can also be applied in other indoor environments, such as indoor gardens or the window sill. The parasitoids are delivered as adults in units of 25 and 100 (for professional use). They are packaged in a 40 ml jar.
The product MICROTERYS NIETNERI contains a parasitoid specialized in the biological control of brown soft scale (Coccus hesperidum). Since it is such a specialist; this parasitoid will not accept hosts other than brown soft scale. The 2 mm big female parasitoids are yellow-brown with a clearly visible black and white checkered pattern on the wings and antennae. Males are black and substantially smaller than females.
How does MICROTERYS NIETNERI work?
The female parasitoids parasitize both small and large soft scales. They lay up to seven eggs per soft scale; depending on the size of the host. Two to three weeks after parasitization; one or several dark rings appear in the soft scale. This shows that the soft-scale is killed and new adult parasitoids will emerge. The new parasitoids will start looking for new hosts after they emerge; and thus the cycle repeats. The parasitoid also puncture small soft scale and feed on their contents. This will kill the soft scle. This process is called host-feeding and significantly contributes to the decrease of the soft scales.
How to combine MICROTERYS NIETNERI?
In most cases; MICROTERYS NIETNERI is the best choice for the biological control of brown soft scale. The product can be combined with COCCOPHAGUS SCUTELLARIS: a parasitoid that is effective at a lower temperature (from 16°C).
March - September
T = 18°C - 30°C, T optimum = 24°C
RH = 50 - 80%
indoor garden, hobby greenhouse, ornamental production
Floriculture: release one per m².
Repeat at least twice, every 2-3 weeks.
Hobby greenhouse or indoor garden: one package of 25 is sufficient for 3-5 plants.
Use this product directly after receiving it.
Handle with care and do not shake.
Open the small jar near the pest, either under or in the plant.
The parasitoids will leave the small jar to look for the pest.
